Open Monument Day in Jena

On Sunday, September 14, 2025, the Open Monument Day will take place nationwide. In Jena, around 30 cultural monuments will open their doors - from the city wall and St. John's Cemetery to churches, villas and parks. The motto of this year's event is "Valuable: priceless or irreplaceable". The German Foundation for Monument Protection is thus focusing on the ideal value of cultural heritage and drawing attention to how important monuments are for identity, community and the cityscape. There are also special programs for children: Whether at the colorful family festival in Schiller's garden or at the medieval experience at the "Binderburg" in Burgau - history is not only told here, but can be experienced in a lively and active way.

50 years of the European Heritage Year

2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the European Heritage Year. It marked a turning point in the treatment of architectural heritage: since then, the preservation of architectural and ground monuments, old town centers, historic towns and ensembles has been considered a cultural task of high importance. The year 1975 was thus a breakthrough for monument preservation and commitment in the state and society - away from demolition and towards the preservation of valuable buildings.

"Monuments preserve our history, shape the cityscape and create places of encounter. They connect the past and present and make Jena an experience for everyone - especially for families and children," explains Peter Fehrmann, Head of Building Regulations and Monument Protection.

Friedrun Vollmer, Director of JenaKultur, adds: "For us at JenaKultur, Open Monument Day is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the diversity of our city's cultural monuments - from the municipal museums and Villa Rosenthal to the city wall ensemble and the Abbe Pavilion. We are particularly pleased that the Jena Philharmonic Orchestra is enriching the campaign day with its season opening in the Volkshaus. In this way, we are building a bridge between the cultural heritage of our city and a lively, contemporary cultural program. This creates a strong interplay between past and present for visitors."

Diversity of the program

From the city wall and St. John's Cemetery to churches, villas and parks: numerous owners, parishes, associations and volunteers open their doors and allow visitors to take a look behind the facades. The program is complemented by guided tours, concerts, hands-on activities and markets. The university, the university hospital, Autobahn GmbH and Imaginata are also taking part in the day of action.

Special thanks go to all monument owners and volunteers who make the day possible. The detailed program is available online and can be found at the tourist information office and the city museum. Short-term changes and information will be announced in the press and online.

Note for families

Children are welcome everywhere. There are special hands-on activities in Schiller's garden and at the medieval festival at Binderburg Castle.